Dr. Oxiris Barbot, New York City’s acting health commissioner said tests on samples had yet to confirm the illness but initial indicators pointed to influenza.

Some passengers had recently attended the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, where the flu virus is known to have been circulating recently, and could have contracted the illness there, Barbot said.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage to the Muslim holy city brings over two million people to a small confined area with respiratory tract infections being the most common disease transmitted during this period.

Yearly flu vaccination of high-risk groups is recommended, but no special recommendations are available for those performing the Hajj or other similar large congregational activities.

According to reports, the passengers became ill with "fevers over 100 degrees and coughing" - while photos showed them getting their temperatures taken as they disembarked.

Eric Phillips - the press secretary for New York Mayor Bill De Blasio - tweeted: "10 sick people off the plane and heading to Jamaica Hospital.

"Health officials taking others off one by one checking for symptoms.

"About 40 cleared and going to customs.

"A few others showing symptoms and being held for treatment and possible transport to hospital."

10 sick people off the plane and heading to Jamaica Hospital. Health officials taking others off one by one checking for symptoms. About 40 cleared and going to customs. A few others showing symptoms and being held for treatment and possible transport to hospital. https://t.co/6X0445ivXy

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According to passenger Larry Coben, police and ambulances were on the scene to meet the flight as it landed.

He said: "All we have been told is that some passengers have fallen ill and we should remain in our seats."

He tweeted that he has seen "no evidence of illness", but added that Flight 203 has "two levels".

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